I know someone who says “Christmas is just another day” which makes me feel very sad. Even if, unlike some of us, you aren’t celebrating the birth of Jesus, it is still, I hope a very special time.

Last year, I caught the flu, so spent the whole of Christmas and the New Year alone in my flat. I wasn’t upset because I knew that they were missing me in York, so I didn’t feel unwanted.

I used to agree with the people who think that preparations start too early, but have changed my mind. If it spreads the happiness then that must be a good thing.

What really does upset me is the fact that some people spend so much that they start the New Year in debt. Small gifts chosen with love can bring much happiness . My mother would plant dozens of hyacinth bulbs in autumn so that they would be in full bloom to offer at Christmas.

One year I made white silk scarves and decorated them using fabric paints. My friends wore them for years! It’s the same with your home décor. Imagination is more important than money!

When we lived on the French Riviera our favourite place at Christmas was always St Tropez. We shopped there at the market twice a week but not in December. Why? The market becomes a skating rink. The surrounding trees sparkle with fairy lights!